Supercritical Fluid Processing of Materials for Regenerative Medicine

In the field of regenerative medicine scaffolds, supercritical fluids (SCFs) were initially utilised to create microporous biodegradable polymeric foams. Supercritical carbon dioxide (scCO2) and other SCFs were desirable solvents as they were inexpensive, non-toxic, non-flammable, did not leave residues and could be reclaimed from other processes. Additionally, the plasticisation of polymers by scCO2 provided opportunities for the incorporation of thermolabile molecules. Whilst SCFs are still well utilised in the production of foamed matrices their versatility has enabled their use in other processes such as microparticle formation, polymer purification, sterilisation, tissue decellularisation and medical device coatings. Recent patents and innovative developments pertaining to the use of supercritical fluids in these processes are discussed herein.